Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe

Some people learned to make grilled cheese using basic ingredients on plain white bread. Others want to take their simple sandwich to the next level and make it more flavorful than the version they grew up with.

You can find many ways to prepare grilled cheese, but few compare to a really good Panera Bread Grilled Cheese.

As a sandwich lover, I wanted a sandwich just like the ones served at Panera, and I knew their secret was in their grilled cheese. That desire inspired me to create this copycat Panera Bread Grilled Cheese recipe.

People love how the cheese melts perfectly while the bread turns crispy and golden on the outside.

I wanted to recreate that same taste at home without making a trip to the café every time. The secret lies in the cooking method and the ingredients you choose.

Today, I’m sharing my version that tastes just like Panera’s. With the right technique and simple ingredients, you can make this copycat Panera Bread Grilled Cheese recipe in your own kitchen and enjoy that delicious result every time.

What Cheese Does Panera Use for Grilled Cheese?

Panera uses American cheese for its signature grilled cheese sandwiches. This cheese melts smoothly and evenly, creating a creamy, gooey center. Its mild flavor pairs perfectly with buttery bread without overpowering it.

Unlike many natural cheeses that can become oily or separate when heated, American cheese keeps a consistent, velvety texture.

That’s why Panera chooses it – ensuring each bite is soft, melty, and balanced, giving that classic comfort taste that has made their grilled cheese so popular.

Why This Copycat Grilled Cheese Recipe Works So Well

1. Reliable Quality: This recipe delivers the same great taste every single time you make it. You don’t have to worry about inconsistent results.

2. Everyone Loves It: Both young and adults enjoy this cheese recipe. It works for any age group and different taste preferences.

3. Cold Weather Favorite: People often want grilled cheese during cooler months because it provides warmth and comfort.

4. Café Quality: This sandwich tastes like something from a café but costs much less. It has that professional touch while feeling homemade.

Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Ingredients

• 2 Slices of Bread: Use white sandwich bread or sourdough for the best results. The bread should be thick enough to hold the cheese without falling apart. Whole wheat bread works too, but it changes the flavor slightly.
• 2 Slices of Cheese: American cheese is what Panera uses. Each slice should be the standard pre-sliced size. You can use cheddar for a sharper taste, but it won’t melt the same way.
• 2 Tablespoons of Butter: Salted or unsalted butter both work well. The butter creates the crispy, golden outside. You can use margarine as a substitute, though butter gives better flavor.
• Mayonnaise (Optional): A thin layer adds extra richness and helps the bread brown evenly. You can skip this or use olive oil instead.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

1. Non-stick skillet – prevents sticking and burning
2. Spatula – helps flip safely
3. Butter knife – spreads butter evenly
4. Cutting board – keeps workspace clean
5. Plate – holds finished sandwich

How To Make Panera Bread Grilled Cheese at Home

Step 1 | Prepare the Bread

Place two slices of bread on a flat surface. Spread butter on one side of each slice, using about one tablespoon total. The butter layer should be thin and even.

Step 2 | Add Mayonnaise

Flip both slices over so the buttered sides face down. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the top side of each slice. Do not use too much mayonnaise, as a light layer works best.

Step 3 | Assemble the Sandwich

Turn one slice over so the mayonnaise side faces down. Place the cheese slices on top, covering most of the bread. Place the second slice on top with the mayonnaise side facing up.

Step 4 | Heat the Pan

Set a skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. Allow the pan to warm slowly before adding the sandwich.

Step 5 | Cook the First Side

Place the sandwich into the heated pan. Cook for about four minutes, or until the bottom slice turns golden brown.

Step 6 | Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Cook the second side for two to three minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese inside is fully melted.

Step 7 | Serve

Remove the sandwich from the pan and place it on a plate. Let it cool for a short moment before cutting and serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Grilled Cheese

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Soft butter spreads smoothly and evenly. This helps the bread brown consistently without tearing or leaving dry spots.

2. Keep Heat Medium-Low: Cooking slowly prevents burning while giving the cheese time to melt fully. Rushing this step leads to dark bread and cold cheese.

3. Don’t Press Too Hard: Pressing the sandwich can push melted cheese out and make the bread dense instead of crisp.

4. Try Different Breads: Sourdough adds tang. Texas toast makes it thicker. Rye brings earthy flavor. Experiment to find your favorite bread type.

5. Add Extra Flavor: Sprinkle garlic powder on the butter before cooking. Try a pinch of black pepper inside. Small additions change the whole sandwich.

6. Cover the Pan Briefly: Placing a lid on the skillet for about 30 seconds traps heat and helps the cheese melt faster without overcooking the bread.

What to Serve with Panera Bread Grilled Cheese

This Panera Bread Grilled Cheese and sandwich pairs wonderfully with tomato soup, which is the classic combination that Panera itself offers.

The warm, creamy soup and crispy sandwich create a complete, satisfying meal that people order together at the café.

You can also serve this grilled cheese with a simple green salad topped with light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the melted cheese and butter.

Potato chips or french fries work well as side dishes too. For a lighter option, serve your Panera-style grilled cheese with fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes.

Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time. Wrap them tightly in parchment paper and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

2. Store Leftovers: Place any leftover sandwich in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. For the best taste and texture, enjoy it within one day.

3. Best Methods for Reheating: Reheat the sandwich in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to help the bread stay crispy. You can also warm it in a skillet over low heat, flipping once.

Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat or multigrain bread?

Yes, whole wheat or multigrain bread works, but it changes the texture and flavor slightly. It may be a bit denser, and the cheese melt may feel firmer, so watch cooking time carefully.

2. Why does my bread burn before the cheese melts?

Your heat is too high. Use medium-low or low heat so the bread toasts slowly and the cheese melts. Thicker bread helps, and covering the pan briefly can speed up melting without burning.

3. Can I add extra ingredients like tomatoes or bacon?

Yes, but keep them thin. Place tomato between cheese slices and cook bacon separately before adding. Too many extras can prevent proper melting or make the sandwich fall apart.

4. How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?

Butter the bread well and cook on medium-low heat. Avoid covering the pan while cooking. Let the sandwich rest for 30 seconds before serving to keep it crisp.

5. Should I cover the pan while cooking?

Covering the pan loosely for 20–30 seconds can help the cheese melt faster, but avoid covering too long. Too much steam softens the bread and reduces crispiness.

6. How do I get the cheese extra melty?

Place a lid on your skillet for the last minute of cooking. The trapped steam helps heat the sandwich through and melts the cheese perfectly every time.

7. Can I freeze grilled cheese sandwiches?

Freezing is possible but not ideal. The texture changes after thawing. The bread can become tough or soggy. The cheese might separate a bit.

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Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe

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Quick Panera Bread Grilled Cheese recipe – melty cheese, crispy bread, ready in 13 minutes for a cozy, delicious meal anytime.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 8 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 slices of white sandwich bread or sourdough bread (thick-cut)
• 2 slices of American cheese (or cheddar for variation)
• 2 tablespoons butter (softened, salted or unsalted)
• 1 teaspoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra browning)

Instructions

1. Place two slices of bread on a flat surface. Spread butter on one side of each slice, using about one tablespoon total. The butter layer should be thin and even.
2. Flip both slices over so the buttered sides face down. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the top side of each slice. Do not use too much mayonnaise, as a light layer works best.
3. Turn one slice over so the mayonnaise side faces down. Place the cheese slices on top, covering most of the bread. Place the second slice on top with the mayonnaise side facing up.
4. Set a skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. Allow the pan to warm slowly before adding the sandwich.
5. Place the sandwich into the heated pan. Cook for about four minutes, or until the bottom slice turns golden brown.
6. Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Cook the second side for two to three minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese inside is fully melted.
7. Remove the sandwich from the pan and place it on a plate. Let it cool for a short moment before cutting and serving.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 400Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 680mgCarbohydrates: 32gFiber: 1.5gSugar: 4gProtein: 14g

This Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe is a quick way to enjoy a warm, buttery, and melty sandwich anytime.

Perfect for easy lunches or cozy dinners, it’s a tasty treat that’s simple to prepare and always satisfying.

Try it and see how delicious it turns out!